Filming for the show's third season began July 17 in Nashville and was documented on Twitter by cast and crew. Among the first scenes shot was a performance in the show's soundstage replica of the Bluebird Cafe, featuring "Will Lexington" (Chris Carmack) and others.

"Nashville's" Los Angeles-based writing staff made their annual trip to the real Music City for the occasion, and spent time meeting with Mayor Karl Dean, country singer Sara Evans and others.

"Nashville" season 3 premieres at 9 p.m. CT Wednesday, September 24 on ABC.